Agenda item

Pursuant to the decision of the Court of 12 October 2017, the Lord Mayor invited John George Stewart Scott, J.P., to take up the office of Chief Commoner for the ensuing year.

Resolved unanimously – That this Honourable Court wishes to extend to

Wendy Mead, O.B.E.

Its sincere gratitude for the manner in which she has undertaken the role of Chief Commoner over the past year.

Wendy’s abiding interest over a civic career exceeding 21 years has been the health and wellbeing not only of the Members of this Honourable Court but also of all those who live, work or play in the City and its surrounding boroughs. Our Open Spaces form a key part of this strategy and Wendy has been diligent in promoting their work through the many Committees on which she has served.

The work of the Chief Commoner is never ending and Wendy has been attentive in representing Members’ interests during her year with patience, sound judgement and, above all, approachability.  In all this endeavour she has been ably supported by Robert Tipping, her consort during her year, to whom our sincere thanks are due.

Wendy also promoted the role of the City of London and of the Chief Commoner far beyond our boundaries and there are many in Chengdu who cherish an eternal memory of her contribution to the Innovation & Entrepreneurship Fair held there last year in her capacity as Chief Peasant.

In taking leave of the Chief Commoner and in thanking her formally and sincerely, her colleagues wish to express their appreciation not only for her resourcefulness and hospitality during the past year, but also for her patience, consideration and courtesy and they wish her continued good health and fulfilment as a senior member of this Honourable Court for many decades in the future.

Wendy Mead was heard in reply, thanking colleagues for their support throughout the year and wishing her successor well in the year ahead.